Digi SIM Card & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate %currentyear%

Digi SIM Card & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate
Digi SIM Card & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate

Digi is a leading telco in Malaysia that provides various Digi SIM card & eSIM and connectivity solutions to consumers as well as businesses. In this article, we will explore Digi’s offerings of physical SIM cards and discuss the latest digital eSIM technology available on selected devices with Digi’s network. Let’s take a look!

I. Quick Facts about Digi

Let’s find out some quick facts about Digi mobile operator  below:

  • Digi was founded in 1995 in Malaysia as Digi Telecommunications.
  • It merged with Celcom in 2022 to form CelcomDigi Berhad.
  • Services include mobile networks, calls, SMS, and internet access.
  • Had 20.3 million subscribers as of late 2022 after the merger.
  • The mobile network covers over 90% of populated areas in Malaysia.
Digi SIM Card & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate
Digi SIM Card & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate

II. Why Digi When Traveling Malaysia – Coverage and Speed

According to this nationwide study, DiGi consistently offered the quickest mobile internet speeds across both 4G and 5G and they have a wide network coverage across Malaysia.

Digi Coverage in Malaysia - Digi Malysia SIM card & eSIM
Digi Coverage in Malaysia – Digi SIM card & eSIM

1. Digi Coverage in Malaysia

Regionally, DiGi won or shared the award for the fastest download speeds in 12 out of 15 Malaysian states and territories. This includes outright wins in major states like Johor, Kedah, and Kelantan.

DiGi only shared regional awards with Maxis, demonstrating wide 4G availability. In terms of coverage consistency, DiGi placed near the top. It led to excellent consistent quality, meeting minimum thresholds for video/games in 62% of tests.

DiGi also came in second for core consistent quality with a score of 83.6%, showing reliable 4G performance. The report indicates DiGi provides a good 4G experience across many areas of Malaysia through its wide network coverage.

2. Digi Speed in Malaysia

Image: Có thể lấy ảnh mục Download/Upload Speed Experience của nhà mạng trên opensignal

DiGi users experienced the fastest overall mobile download speeds at an average of 17.6 Mbps nationwide. This was around 8% faster than the second-place provider, Maxis, whose users averaged 16.3 Mbps.

DiGi’s download speeds were 37-40% quicker than other major providers like U Mobile and Unifi. Regionally, DiGi had the highest average download speeds in 12 out of 15 states/territories. This included outright speed wins in heavily populated areas like Johor, Kedah, and Kelantan.

DiGi’s average upload speeds also placed second at 5.9 Mbps, not far behind leader Maxis. For 5G specifically, DiGi achieved the fastest average 5G download speeds at 117.6 Mbps. DiGi 5G users also saw the highest minimum and peak 5G download speeds.

III. What are the Best Connectivity Options of Digi for Travelers to Malaysia?

There are some connectivity options of Digi for tourists:

  • Prepaid SIM
  • Daily data pass
  • Short-term plan
  • Long-term plan
  • Home broadband
OptionDurationCost StructureData AllowanceProsCons
Prepaid SIMAs neededPay as you goLimited by creditInexpensive upfront; flexible usageMust top up often; funds not refundable
Daily data pass1 dayPay per day1-2GB per dayNo commitment; cancel anytimeHigher daily cost; may not be enough data
Short-term plan7-30 daysUpfront payment5-10GB per weekBetter value than daily; more dataStill expires if not fully used
Long-term plan1-12 monthsUpfront paymentUnlimited*Best value; rollover dataLonger commitment; setup fees
Home broadbandMonthlyMonthly subscriptionUnlimitedFast WiFi anywhere; no SIM changeLimited to home location; higher cost

IV. Best Digi SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

Best Digi SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Best Digi SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

Here is a table of the prepaid plans available with Digi in Malaysia for tourists to refer to:

Plan NamePriceDataOther AllowancesValidityActivation Code
Digi Prepaid Live (basic SIM)RM8300MB + 5MB credit10GB music/video streaming per month, 1000mins/SMS to Buddyz, 500MB basic internet5 daysN/A
4G Plus Tourist SIM (Airport purchase)RM202GB7GB bonus data, unlimited WeChat, 5MB credit, 10mins local+IDD calls7 daysN/A
4G Plus Tourist SIM (Airport purchase)RM4010GB15GB bonus data, unlimited WeChat, 5MB credit, 30mins local+IDD calls15 daysN/A
Internet Cili Padi Pass 1RM122GB2GB bonus data 1-7 PM7 days1162#
Internet Cili Padi Pass 2RM152GBNone30 days1163#
Internet Cili Padi Pass 3RM284GBUnlimited Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube30 days1163#
Internet Cili Padi Pass 4RM356GBUnlimited Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube30 days1163#
Time Based Pass 1RM11GBValid for 1 hourN/A1162#
Time Based Pass 2RM210GBValid between 1-7 AMN/A1162#
Time Based Pass 3RM210GBValid between 7 AM-1 PMN/A1162#
Time Based Pass 4RM8UnlimitedValid for 24 hoursN/A1162#

From the above table, The best Digi prepaid plans are:

  • For 1-2 weeks: RM20 4G Plus Tourist SIM from airports (2GB data + social bonuses, valid 7 days)
  • For 2+ weeks: RM35 Internet Cili Padi Pass 4 (6GB data + unlimited social media, valid 30 days)
  • Short-term data needs: RM2 Time Based Pass 2 or 3 (10GB valid during off-peak hours)

V. Does Digi Support eSIM in Malaysia?

No, Digi does not directly support eSIM in Malaysia. If you would like to use an eSIM in Malaysia, you can come and research eSIM plans from Maxis or Celcom. Moreover, it is straightforward for you to get an eSIM from online eSIM providers like GIGAGO. In particular, GIGAGO will offer Malaysia eSIMs for tourists from all around the world. Find more information: Malaysia eSIM from GIGAGO

GIGAGO Malaysia eSIM
GIGAGO Malaysia eSIM

VI. Where to Buy a Digi SIM card in Malaysia?

To buy a Digi prepaid SIM card in Malaysia, tourists can try visiting the following options :

  • Digi Stores: Digi has numerous retail stores across Malaysia where you can purchase SIM cards. Major malls and popular areas will have a Digi store.
  • Authorized Dealers: Digi SIM cards can also be bought from third-party retailers and phone shops that are authorized dealers. Look for signs indicating they sell Digi.
  • Airports: The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and other Malaysian airports have Digi counters where you can get a SIM upon arrival.
  • Online: Digi SIM cards can be ordered from Digi’s official website or via popular e-commerce platforms like Shopee Malaysia and Lazada.
  • Convenience Stores: Major 7-Eleven, KK Super Mart, and Times stores across Malaysia sell Digi prepaid starter packs.
  • Pop-Up counters: Digi occasionally sets up temporary pop-up retailers at malls, bus terminals, etc.
Where to Buy a Digi SIM card in Malaysia?
Digi Stores – Where to Buy a Digi SIM card in Malaysia?

VII. How to Activate Digi SIM in Malaysia?

To activate a Digi prepaid SIM card in Malaysia, please follow the below steps:

  • Purchase a Digi SIM starter pack.
  • Insert SIM into an unlocked phone and turn it on.
  • Send an SMS with “HI” to 1500 for SIM to enter pre-order mode.
  • Receive a 14-digit registration number via SMS.
  • Call 1500 or dial 150REGISTER# for registration.
  • Key in MyKad/passport number when prompted.
  • Enter 14-digit registration number.
  • Set a 4-digit PIN and nickname.
  • Confirm registration by pressing 1.
  • Make a test call/load credit to check activation.
  • Top-up credit via bank, stores, or e-wallet.
  • Manage the number and reload via the MyDigi app or 1501#.

VIII. How to Top-up Digi SIM?

There are several ways to top-up credit for your Digi prepaid SIM in Malaysia:

  • Online Banking: Top-up directly from your bank account via online banking sites of Maybank, CIMB, RHB Bank, etc.
  • DIGI Apps: Use the MyDigi mobile app or website to top-up with debit/credit cards. Instant top-up.
  • Convenience Stores: Top-up at 7-Eleven, KK Super Mart, Lucas, TD, etc. Pay by cash.
  • E-wallet Top-up: Top-up your Digi number via e-wallets like Boost, GrabPay, Touch n Go eWallet.
  • Reload Centers: Top-up at authorized Digi reload centers found in malls and airports. Cash/cards.
  • ATM Machines: Select the “credit load” option at participating bank ATMs like Maybank, and CIMB.
  • SMS: SMS given amount + SIM number to 15888. Eg: RM10 0123456789
  • Call 150: Dial 1501# and follow the prompts to top-up via Maybank/CIMB debit card.

IX. FAQs about a Digi SIM card & eSIM Malaysia

1. How do I purchase a Digi SIM card?

You can buy a Digi SIM starter pack from Digi stores, authorized dealers, and convenience stores. Have your passport ready.

2. Do I need to register my new SIM card?

Yes, all new Digi SIM cards need to be registered by calling *150# and providing identification details.

3. Does Digi offer eSIM plans in Malaysia?

No, Digi does not currently support eSIM. Only Celcom, Maxis, and U Mobile provide eSIM services.

4. Can I use a Digi number with an eSIM plan?

No, eSIM plans like those from eSIM Malaysia only work on Celcom’s network and do not support Digi numbers

X. Conclusion

In conclusion, Digi operates a mobile network in Malaysia but only offers physical prepaid SIM cards, not eSIM plans. Their SIMs must be bought, registered with ID, and topped up for use.

This article has already shown you all about how to get and activate a Digi SIM card & eSIM Malaysia. While a major provider, Digi currently lacks eSIM support. Hence, if you would like to use an eSIM and have compatible devices to support it, let’s buy it from GIGAGO – an online eSIM provider to save time and money.